Whole30 Garlic Butter Chicken

A Whole30 Garlic Butter Chicken recipe is perfect for busy weeknights and gatherings alike. This dish boasts a delightful blend of flavors that make it a standout meal. With just 20 minutes of cooking time, you’ll have a delicious, satisfying dinner on the table without breaking the bank. Plus, it’s versatile enough to be paired with various sides, ensuring it fits into any occasion seamlessly.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes only 20 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy individuals or families.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of garlic and vegan butter creates a rich flavor that elevates simple chicken to something extraordinary.
• Versatile Pairing Options: Serve this dish with rice, caulirice, or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
• Budget-Friendly: Made with affordable ingredients, this recipe is kind to your wallet while still being delicious.
• Family-Friendly: Kid-approved flavors ensure everyone at the table will enjoy this meal.

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Tools and Preparation

To prepare this Whole30 Garlic Butter Chicken, you’ll need a few essential tools. These items will make your cooking process smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large bowl or reusable zip-top bag
• Large sauté pan
• Measuring spoons
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large bowl or reusable zip-top bag: Essential for mixing the chicken with seasonings evenly.
• Large sauté pan: Ensures that the chicken cooks thoroughly and gets that perfect golden-brown crust.
• Measuring spoons: Helps you accurately measure ingredients for consistent flavor every time.

Ingredients

A FAST and easy budget-friendly 20-minute dinner with basic ingredients but full of flavor!

For the Chicken

• 1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breast (cut into 1 pieces)
• 5 tablespoons vegan butter (divided, see notes if on Whole30)
• 1/4 cup arrowroot, potato, or cassava flour or starch (see notes for Keto)
• 1 tablespoon Trader Joe’s 21 Seasoning Salute (see notes for alternative)
• 1 1/2 teaspoons garlic salt
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 2 tablespoons minced fresh garlic

How to Make Whole30 Garlic Butter Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Add cubed chicken to a large bowl or reusable zip-top bag. Add all of the seasonings and flour or starch (if using). Stir or toss until well coated.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Add 3 tablespoons ghee to a large sauté pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken in a single layer. Cook until there are brown crispy bits on both sides, about 5 minutes per side.

Step 3: Add Flavor

Once chicken is mostly browned, add the remaining 2 tablespoons ghee and 2 tablespoons minced garlic. Sauté for another 2-3 minutes or until garlic is lightly browned and fragrant, and chicken is cooked through (no pink inside).

Step 4: Serve

Do a happy dance that dinner is done ALREADY! If you’re in a hurry, pair this with steam-in-a-bag rice or caulirice and green beans that you can steam in your microwave while the chicken is cooking. BOOM, dinner is done!

Step 5: Store Leftovers

FREEZE leftover chicken in a sealed container for up to 3 months.

How to Serve Whole30 Garlic Butter Chicken

Whole30 Garlic Butter Chicken is not only delicious but also versatile. It can be paired with various sides to create a well-rounded meal. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dinner experience.

With Cauliflower Rice

• Cauliflower rice is a great low-carb alternative to traditional rice. Simply steam or sauté it for a quick and easy side that complements the flavors of the chicken.

On a Bed of Greens

• Serve the chicken over a mix of fresh greens, like spinach or arugula, for a light and refreshing option. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice for added flavor.

With Steamed Vegetables

• Pair this dish with steamed vegetables such as broccoli, green beans, or asparagus. This adds color and nutrients to your plate while balancing the richness of the chicken.

In Lettuce Wraps

• For a fun and healthy twist, serve the garlic butter chicken in lettuce wraps. Add sliced avocado and chopped tomatoes for extra texture and taste.

With Sweet Potato Fries

• Sweet potato fries offer a sweet and savory contrast to the garlic butter chicken. Bake or air-fry them for a crispy side that’s easy to prepare.

Over Zucchini Noodles

• Zucchini noodles (or zoodles) are a fantastic gluten-free alternative to pasta. Toss them lightly in olive oil before serving for added flavor.

How to Perfect Whole30 Garlic Butter Chicken

To ensure your Whole30 Garlic Butter Chicken turns out perfectly every time, consider these tips. They will help you achieve the best texture and flavor.

• Choose Quality Chicken: Use fresh, high-quality chicken breast for better flavor. Organic options are often more tender and juicy.

• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook the chicken in batches if necessary. This allows for even cooking and helps achieve that desired crispy texture.

• Control Heat Levels: Adjust your heat if you notice any burning. Medium-high heat works best, but you can lower it if needed to avoid charred bits.

• Use Fresh Garlic: Fresh garlic offers more robust flavor compared to pre-minced varieties. Mince it just before adding it to maximize its aroma.

• Allow for Resting Time: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps retain moisture and enhances overall flavor.

• Experiment with Seasonings: Don’t hesitate to adjust seasonings according to your taste preferences. Adding herbs like thyme or rosemary can elevate this dish further.

Best Side Dishes for Whole30 Garlic Butter Chicken

Pairing your Whole30 Garlic Butter Chicken with complementary side dishes can take your meal from good to great. Here are some fantastic options:

1. Garlic Roasted Broccoli: Toss broccoli florets with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper before roasting until tender for an easy yet flavorful side.

2. Zesty Cucumber Salad: Combine sliced cucumbers with red onions, lemon juice, and dill for a refreshing salad that balances the richness of the chicken.

3. Sautéed Spinach: Quickly sauté fresh spinach in olive oil and garlic for a nutritious side that cooks in just minutes.

4. Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts: Roast Brussels sprouts tossed in balsamic vinegar until caramelized for a sweet and tangy addition to your meal.

5. Mashed Sweet Potatoes: Make creamy mashed sweet potatoes seasoned with cinnamon and nutmeg as a comforting side dish that pairs well with garlic flavors.

6. Ratatouille: A mix of sautéed vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, and tomatoes creates a colorful dish full of nutrients that goes beautifully with chicken.

7. Crispy Air-Fried Asparagus: Air fry asparagus spears seasoned simply with salt until they’re crispy yet tender; it’s an effortless way to add greens to your plate.

8. Simple Quinoa Salad: Cook quinoa according to package directions and mix it with diced bell peppers, parsley, and lemon juice for a filling grain option that’s still Whole30-friendly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Whole30 Garlic Butter Chicken, there are some common pitfalls that can affect the final dish. Here are some mistakes to steer clear of:

• Using the wrong type of flour: Not all flours work for Whole30. Ensure you use arrowroot, potato, or cassava flour as specified for best results.
• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking the chicken too long can dry it out. Aim for a golden brown outside while ensuring it’s cooked through.
• Skipping seasoning: Whole30 Garlic Butter Chicken requires flavorful seasoning. Don’t skip or skimp on the garlic salt and Trader Joe’s 21 Seasoning Salute.
• Not preheating the pan: A hot pan is essential for crispy chicken. Always preheat your sauté pan before adding any ingredients.
• Ignoring leftovers: Don’t waste leftover chicken! Store it properly to enjoy it later instead of letting it go to waste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.

Freezing Whole30 Garlic Butter Chicken

• Place cooled chicken in a freezer-safe container.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Whole30 Garlic Butter Chicken

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and reheat chicken in a baking dish covered with foil until heated through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe container, cover loosely, and heat in short intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist while reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Whole30 Garlic Butter Chicken?

Whole30 Garlic Butter Chicken is a quick and flavorful dish made with simple ingredients, suitable for those following the Whole30 diet.

Can I use regular butter instead of vegan butter?

Yes, if you’re not strictly adhering to Whole30 guidelines, you can substitute regular butter for vegan butter in this recipe.

How do I customize Whole30 Garlic Butter Chicken?

You can add vegetables such as bell peppers or zucchini during cooking for extra nutrition and flavor.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Absolutely! The mild flavors of Whole30 Garlic Butter Chicken make it appealing to kids and adults alike.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can prep the chicken with seasonings ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to cook.

Final Thoughts

Whole30 Garlic Butter Chicken is not only quick and budget-friendly but also packed with flavor that everyone will love. Its versatility allows you to customize it with different veggies or spices according to your taste. Give this recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed!